Generator Policy

We welcome art and camps that require electricity and while we are sometimes able to provide that electricity, you might need to bring a generator of your own. Before you do however there are a few things to keep in mind.

Event Provided Power

Only camps and projects authorized for power at the Event may plug in to event generators and only after those generators have been cleared for use by Event staff. If you plug into Event provided power remember that you do so at your own risk. Power is… well…POWERFUL and even when reasonable care is taken accidents can happen. We strongly recommend meter-testing the power output before plugging in.

Personal Generators

If you bring your own generator remember that you have an obligation to ensure that it’s used in a safe manner and that anyone you allow to use it should be trained in its safe fueling and operation. Hot generators and flammable vapors are an easy way to endanger the lives of every single YOUtopian, so if a Fire Safety team member tells you the location of your generator or fuel depot is not acceptable, please don't argue...just comply. Failure to conform to any of these rules can lead to your generator being shut down for the duration of the Event.

ALL generators must have an accompanying appropriate fire extinguisher (for most folks this will be an ABC fire extinguisher) of sufficient size and ready to use.

Generators must be placed in an area that is free of brush, debris, and other flammable materials.

Fuel must be stored a minimum of 10ft from the generator and any other heat sources, and out of direct sunlight. Your fuel storage area must have a “No Smoking” sign posted.

Generators must be completely shut down prior to beginning refueling.

Absolutely no smoking while refueling.

Gasoline fueled generators must be attended when in operation at YOUtopia. While artists and Theme Camps often leave generators unattended at Burning Man or other events, the location and timing of YOUtopia (wildfire season) make this a serious safety concern. Unattended generators WILL be shut off, and locked out. To unlock your generator visit Safety HQ or ask anyone on the Fire Safety team. We don’t want to inconvenience you, but we are committed to preventing unintended fires. Exceptions to this rule may be made on a case-by-case, site specific basis, but ONLY IF approved in advance. Please contact Fire Safety if you are seeking such an exception.

How loud is your generator? A lot of generators are loud and if yours is, as a courtesy to yourself and your neighbors, please incorporate sound baffling in your generator plans. If this is your first time baffling a generator please remember to use fire retardant materials in the lining and allow enough breathing room to prevent your baffle from becoming tinder. A properly baffled generator can be placed wherever the Fire Safety team requires it without the noise keeping you, your campmates, or the neighbors from complaining.